Oman futsal team played out a 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia in their second match at the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Kuwait 2022 Qualifiers on Wednesday night.
With the draw, Oman revived their chances to qualify into the finals as they snatched their first point in the group while Saudi Arabia raised their tally to four points.
The first and second places from each group will advance to the finals. The third-placed in Group A will face the opponents from same position in Group B and the winner will join the qualifiers to finals which will be held in Kuwait later this year during September 25 to October 20.
Oman played their last group match late on Thursday against Palestine.
At the Zayed Sports Complex, coach Younis al Fahdi’s men began the match strongly as Mohammed al Lawati netted the first goal earlier in the first half.
Saudi replied quickly as Fahad Rudayni equalised few seconds later. Saudi Arabia players pressed hard later to confirm their qualification and register second successive win as Nasser Zayed found the target and gave his team the lead in the 14th minute ahead of the break.
Oman players entered the second half taking into consideration that the loss may dent their hopes to advance. After series of opportunities, Oman’s Khalfan al Maawali found the target five minutes into the second half and the match ended with 2-2 draw.
LEBANON SEAL SPOT
On the other hand, Lebanon sealed their spot in the finals as they registered their second consecutive win after defeating Palestine 6-3 on Wednesday in Group A. Lebanon are leading the group with six points and followed by Saudi Arabia at four points. Oman are third with one point only and Palestine are in the bottom of the group with no points.
Oman started their campaign in Futsal Asian Cup Kuwait 2022 Qualifiers with a 2-1 loss against Lebanon in the opening game on Tuesday. In the same group, Saudi Arabia registered a tough 5-4 win over fighting Palestine.